Gary Burrows 34

Description

A child sex offender was exposed when he travelled internationally to meet the victim he groomed online.

Gary Burrows, 34, initiated sexualised social media conversations with the girl.

Aware that his victim was only 15-years-old at the time, Burrows enticed her to send him a series of sexually explicit images – and sent them back too.

He also arranged to meet her in person and flew to Canada once she turned 16.

Ontario Provincial Police were made aware that Burrows was having sexual relations with the victim in September 2023 but took no further action as 16 is the age of consent in that country.

It was, however, reported to Nottinghamshire Police to investigate potential offences committed whist the victim was still 15 years old.

Burrows’ phone was examined, and he was arrested in October 2023.

Burrows, formerly of Lime Street, Sutton-in-Ashfield, went on to plead guilty to making indecent photos of a child, causing a child aged 13 to 15 to look at an image of sexual activity, and engaging in sexual communication with a child.

He also pleaded guilty to two counts of causing a girl aged 13 to 15 to engage in sexual activity.

Appearing at Nottingham Crown Court on Friday 20 February, he was jailed for three years and placed on the sex offenders’ register.

He was also made the subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will tightly restrict his activities once he is released from prison.

Detective Constable Jason Jenkins, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“Burrows is a calculating sex offender who poses a significant danger to young girls.

“He knew exactly what he was doing and had absolutely no care for the very significant harm he was causing.

“As his victim was outside the country, he may have thought he could have gotten away with such depraved behaviour.

“This was, obviously, proven thoroughly wrong when he was placed before the courts.

“Those who choose to act this way can be warned – you will be held accountable.”